Helen Duncan, Humanity, and the History of Witchcraft in Scotland

Join us on Monday 29th May 2-3pm for a free talk on the history of Helen Duncan by Stephanie Shakay Tierney at Craigmillar Now!

Renowned Spiritualist and medium Helen Duncan was the last person to be prosecuted and imprisoned in 1944 under the Witchcraft Act of 1735. Helen, aka ‘Hellish Nell,’ is often referred to as Scotland’s last witch, but the truth of her story is much more complex. Helen left a lasting impression on Scotland, Edinburgh, and Craigmillar that is both socially and geographically relevant today.

Stephanie Shakay Tierney, PhD candidate in Social Anthropology from the University of Edinburgh, will discuss Helen’s story and the wider history of witchcraft in Scotland to explore the way the past impacts the present and the development of movements that attempt to reckon with this complicated history in the present day.

A warm vegan lunch will be served at 1pm which you are welcome to join us for.

Craigmillar Now is located at 58 Newcraighall Road, EH15 3HS (the church across from Fort Kinnaird).

We have an accessible car park on site with ramp access. The talk will be based on the ground floor of the centre.

All our bathrooms are gender neutral. There is one ground floor, accessible bathroom. We have central heating but as the centre is based in a historic church we ask that folk layer up as the building can get cold. There is an echo in the building which can effect hearing aids.

If you have any questions, dietary needs or access requirements please email louise@craigmillarnow.com